Taiesha Watkins: 27-Year-Old Houston Mother Shot Dead In New Orleans

Taiesha Watkins, 27, was struck by a bullet on Saturday, July 28, 2018 as the Houston woman was visiting New Orleans. 

Taiesha Watkins enjoyed a good time like most people and chose New Orleans for a fun weekend. Little did she know, her visit would be fatal.

Watkins, who was employed by Memorial Hermann Orthopedic and Spine Hospital in Texas, was shot after a gunman opened fire in a crowd near the French Quarter.

The shooting happened Saturday, July 28, 2018 on the 3400 block of Claiborne Avenue, according to news reports.

Authorities believe Watkins wasn't the target of the shooting, but instead gunmen were trying to kill another man on the scene.

Police chief Michael Harrison said  two suspects apparently pulled a rifle and a handgun in the crowd and began to indiscriminately shoot, hitting 10 people.

"We believe that they actually stood over one of the individuals and fired multiple rounds and then after that, fled," Harrison said, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

"She was a beautiful soul with a smile and personality that would light up the entire room," said friend Chloe Alexander, a digital producer at khou.com.

Other fatal victims were identified as Kurshaw Jackson, 38, and Jeremiah Lee, 28.

Memorial Hermann Hospital released the following statement, "We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our friend and colleague, Taiesha Watkins. Tai was full of life, and brought laughter and joy to her Memorial Hermann family. She often spoke of her daughter, whom she loved deeply. Tai was an important piece of the fabric of our hospital and her loss is felt by us all. We offer our sincerest condolences to her family and loved ones during this terribly difficult time," Ed Tufaro, COO of Memorial Hermann Orthopedic & Spine Hospital said.
 

Watkins leaves behind a 5-year-old daughter.